When Does an Ingrown Toenail Require Professional Care?
Ingrown toenails are fairly common. Though painful, they usually aren’t serious cause for concern. However, there are exceptions. If you have an ingrown toenail, here’s when you need an expert.
Common Foot Problems During Pregnancy and What You Can Do About Them
Pregnancy takes a toll on your body. As your belly grows, your feet have to adjust to extra weight, an entirely new center of balance, and even changes in your blood pressure and circulation.
Studies show that even after your pregnancy, your feet aren’t likely to be the same again; pregnancy can permanently change your foot structure.
At Cortez Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bradenton, University Park, and Ellenton, Florida, our team of experienced podiatrists helps you manage pregnancy-related foot problems like heel pain or ankle pain, and keep your feet healthy for the soon-to-come days when you’re chasing after your little one.
Common pregnancy-related foot problems
While every pregnancy is different, most women experience worse foot health when they’re expecting. You may experience only one or two of the following symptoms, or many of them. The important thing is to see a foot specialist to avoid permanent damage during your pregnancy.
Swelling
Swelling in your feet and ankles is often due to changes in circulation, which can lead to fluid retention in your lower extremities. Even a little swelling can be painful.
Ask us about compression stockings you can wear to reduce swelling, and about shoes that keep your feet from hurting while offering proper support. Try to elevate your feet several times each day, and have your partner rub your feet if possible to encourage healthy circulation.
Plantar fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue that extends across the bottom of your foot, supporting the foot’s natural arch. Plantar fasciitis develops when this band becomes irritated and inflamed, leading to pain in your heel and foot.
During pregnancy, you can get plantar fasciitis when the added weight from the growing baby increases the pressure on your foot, including the plantar fascia.
Doing daily foot stretches, like rolling a tennis ball under your feet, and wearing shoes with good arch supports can help. You can also ask about night splints to support your feet while you sleep.
Bunions
If the joint at the base of your big toe juts out and hurts while the toe itself turns inward, you probably have a bunion. Bunions are common among pregnant women because the ligaments connecting the toe joints can become more elastic.
Conservative treatments for a bunion include wearing properly fitting, supportive footwear, and giving your feet warm soaks every day.
More tips for pregnancy footcare
Follow these tips for healthier feet during your pregnancy (or at any other time).
- Carefully dry your feet, including between the toes, any time they get wet or sweaty
- Apply moisturizer after washing and drying your feet
- Wear breathable socks and shoes for added comfort
- Don’t just buy one pair of “pregnancy shoes” — you’ll need several as your feet change
Finally, if you develop any type of foot problem during pregnancy, seek medical treatment right away. Even minor problems can become major ones if they’re not quickly addressed.
If you’re pregnant and experiencing a foot problem, contact the location nearest you or book an appointment online today.
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